Opinions on online college?

[Toemily]

I'm still a senior in high school, but I'm looking into colleges. I've applied to a community college already, just for liberal arts, and that's what my parents want me to do. But I'm really into writing, and I know that I won't get bored of it. I've liked writing since I was in 5th grade, and now I'm 17, so I think if I've liked it for this long I'm not going to lose any interest in it. I saw an ad for Full Sail University in creative writing, and it's an online course for a year. I've already talked to one of the people who run it, and it sounds really nice. I don't know if I should go to the community college first and then do that, or if I should just do that? And should I do online or actually go to a college for it? I really want to be able to write in my pajamas and stay home, but my parents think I should experience going to college. I don't want to upset them, but it's what I want? Please help me! Thank you SOO much! xo

[AVM MD]

Absolutely do not give any of your money to Full Sail University. It's not an accredited college, so a degree or credits that you take there won't transfer or be respected by any other college. They pull people in with their nice people on the phone and the idea of being able to attend college from home, but it will be an absolute waste of your money. Please, attend community college - you can take creative writing classes there.

[Jordan]

I am a senior in high school also. I take all online classes. I love it. Highschool wasn't for me, but still graduating with my class. Just think about what you want. Do you like the classroom experience? Online class takes SO much self discipline. My brother also graduated from online college and he loved it. We both had jobs during the day, we still have a social life, and we get our work done. He now has a very successful job. I wouldn't change a thing abut my life right now.
You could always go to a regular college if you don't like online!
It's tough, but I LOVE it.
I highly recommend it, you just have to have a lot of self discipline.
Good luck!

[Full Sail]

Hi there!

Those are great questions and I think it is smart to do your research before selecting a college. One of the advantages to Full Sail’s education is that it is accelerated and if you attend a community college for 1-2 years beforehand you might lose some of the advantage that comes with doing an accelerated program that allows you to get into the industry so much quicker. As far as having the college experience you do have a couple different options. We do offer the Creative Writing for Entertainment degree both online and on campus, so if you did pursue that you could come to campus for that more collegiate feel. However, if you choose to do the online program our degrees are much more interactive and hands-on than a traditional online program. You can see more about our online platform here (you could also share this with your parents so they can get a better understanding too): http://www.fullsail.edu/online-education/how-it-works

Ultimately, it is a decision that will have to be made with you and your parents but it is definitely a good idea to do the research that you are doing to prepare yourself. I know you have already spoken with an Admissions Representative from Full Sail but if you have any follow up questions please don’t hesitate to reach out by calling 800.226.7625. Also, you can always get some first hand perspective by posting in our Facebook community to see what other people have to say: http://www.facebook.com/FullSailUniversity

All the best with your education!

Best,
Hannah M.
Full Sail University